Tony-winner Hal Holbrook will star in The Shakespeare Theatre's production of The Merchant of Venice, May 25-July 18 in Washington D.C.

Shakespeare Theatre artistic director Michael Kahn will direct.

Holbrook won a Tony Award for his portrayal of Mark Twain in the solo performance, Mark Twain Tonight!. Holbrook is also the recipient of five Emmy awards and has appeared in numerous film including : "All the President's Men," "The Firm," "Wall Street," "Capricorn One," and "Creepshow." Holbrook also appeared on Broadway in An American Daughter and at the Roundabout Theatre as King Lear.

In Venice, Shakespeare not only investigates morality in commerce but delves into serious questioning of racial issues. Bassanio, a Venetian nobleman who's spent his inheritance, plans to marry Portia, a wealthy heiress. His friend Antonio agrees to provide the money to fund Bassanio's quest for her hand by seeking a loan from Shylock. Shylock, a moneylender, will loan the money to Antonio but only if he stakes "a pound of flesh."

The cast for Venice also includes: Enid Graham, Keith Baxter, Hank Stratton, Sean Arbuckle, Mark H. Dold, David Jackson, Andrew Long, Emery Battis, Nathan Hinton, Teagle Bougere, Eve Holbrook, Herb Downer, Jack Willis and Robin Moseley. For tickets or more information, call (202) 547-1122.

-- By Sean McGrath